The gala will see a host of musicians perform U2’s backcatalogue, before the band cap off the evening with a brief performance of their own. Performers on the night will be announced in the coming weeks.
“We are honoured to celebrate and recognize U2 as this year’s MusiCares Persons of the Year,” said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares in a statement.
“Their impact goes far beyond the stage. Not only has their music defined generations, but they’ve been equally exemplary in their dedication to humanitarian work and using their platform for good. We are so excited to come together to honor their collective artistry and commitment to giving back on this special night.”
MusiCares previously honored frontman Bono individually in 2003.
U2 said of their honour: “We’ve been recording and touring for 50 years because of that pool, from producers and engineers to carpenters and riggers.
“Persons of the Year couldn’t be a better title, as it’s the people we’ve been so fortunate to work with, and of course our indomitable audience, that have given us the opportunity to keep making music and keep rocking the boat on things we really care about. It’s such an honour, and we’re very excited to be in the front row of our first ever U2 gig… we know we’re gonna be outplayed.”
They join previous honorees including as Mariah Carey, Jon Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Dolly Parton, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen.
